2001 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (129 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 193 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen T5.
Because 2001 BMW 318 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | T5 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
